5 must-pack natural remedies

Whether you're hiking the High Sierras or taking in the Louvre, misery-proof your summer vacation by having these natural remedies with you. Erin Stokes, ND, the Boulder, Colorado-based creator of Coyote Mountain natural first-aid kits, suggests some favorites.

Fend off mosquitoes, chiggers, and other insect-family attackers with Buzz Away insect repellent towelettes. Pest-resistant essential oils, including cedarwood, citronella, peppermint, and lemongrass, take the place of potentially harmful chemicals like DEET. And the ultra-portable towelettes won't leak in the bottom of your backpack.

Hopping time zones? Reset a jet lag-beset body clock by taking 1 mg melatonin (such as Jarrow tablets) before your new bedtime. The hormone has been shown to help establish a new sleep cycle; but consult your health care practitioner before using it.

Reduce your chances of sunburn by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and slathering on Dr. Hauschka's SPF 20 Sunscreen Spray, made with rose-hip extract and shea butter, every two hours (more often if you're swimming or sweating). Still managed to burn? Soothe your skin with Boiron Calendula Gel. Made with an extract derived from marigolds, the multipurpose product also speeds along the healing of cuts and scrapes.

If you're hit with traveler's diarrhea after sampling local cuisine, stick to blander eats like rice and applesauce until your symptoms clear up. And feel better faster with Hyland's Diarrex, made with homeopathic Arsenicum album, which Stokes says is a prime stomach soother.

To prevent dehydration, up your fluid intake to 3 to 4 quarts a day, and pour a packet of Ola Loa Energy powder in your water bottle. The naturally sweetened tropical punch and orange flavors are packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to keep you going when it's hot.